Lithuania - Chiesa del Gesù

Construction work began in 1551 at the behest of Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Society of Jesus (Jesuits), who was very active during the time of the Protestant reformation.

The church has a close connection to the Lithuanian community, above all because it contains the tomb of Jerzy Radziwiłł (1556-1600), who became the first Lithuanian cardinal in history when he was named to the Sacred College at the age of just 27.

Its architectural structure marked a turning point in the history of art. It was built, in accordance with spirit and the decrees of the Council of Trent, during the Counter-Reformation. The plan envisaged a single nave, so as to focus the attention of the faithful on the altar and the priest presider. It was to serve, subsequently, as a model for the various churches and oratories built by the Society of Jesus throughout the world.